Bone marrow transplant in children - discharge

Definition

Your child had a bone marrow transplant. It will take 6 to 12 months or more for your child's blood counts and immune system to fully recover. During this time, the risk of infection, bleeding, and skin problems are higher than before the transplant. Follow instructions from your child's health care provider on how to care for your child at home.

DO NOT let your child eat or drink anything that may be undercooked or spoiled at home or when eating out. Learn how to cook and store foods safely.

Make sure water is safe to drink.

Make sure your child washes their hands with soap and water often, including:

After touching body fluids, such as mucous or blood

Before handling food

After going to the bathroom

After using the telephone

After being outdoors

Ask the doctor what vaccines your child may need and when to get them.

Oral Care

Your child's immune system is weak. So it is important to take good care of your child's oral health. This will help prevent infections that can become serious and spread. Tell your child's dentist that your child has had a bone marrow transplant. That way you can work together to ensure the best oral care for your child.

Have your child to brush his teeth and gums 2 to 3 times a day for 2 to 3 minutes each time. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to use. Floss gently once a day.

Air dry the toothbrush between brushings.

Use toothpaste with fluoride.

Have your child rinse their mouth 4 times a day with a salt and baking soda solution. (Mix one half teaspoon, or 2 g, of salt and one half teaspoon, or 2 g, of baking soda in 8 ounces, or 240 mL, of water.)

Your child's doctor may prescribe a mouth rinse. Make sure it is alcohol free.

Take care of your child's lips with products made with lanolin. Tell the doctor if your child develops new mouth sores or pain.

DO NOT let your child eat foods and drinks that have a lot of sugar in them. Give them sugarless gums or sugar-free popsicles or sugar-free hard candies.

Take care of your child's braces, retainers, or other dental products:

Children can continue to wear oral appliances like retainers as long as they fit well.